The peony hates being moved. Dont be tempted to shift it. It can sit sulking for years as Poppy says - but it will be getting bigger and forming a clump. Once they start flowering nothing much stops 'em - they flourish in totally overgrown, neglected gardens (truly infuriating!) - until you try to split the clump!

I think Ann has it... would add that Treeand...is also correct...what is seen as sulking is just the time it takes for the plant to grow up through the excess soil over it's head. and it likes some organic matter in its soil.. The bud eyes should only be 2 inches below the surface, when dividing clumps, do it in late summer/early fall and 3 to 5 eyes to a section. they should be given lots of room, at least 3 ft. apart. hth...